College of Education and Human Development

CEHD Alumni Awards

The College of Education and Human Development is now accepting nominations and support letters for the 2026 Alumni Awards. The ceremony will be held during Homecoming Weekend (TBA).

Now accepting nominations until June 30, 2026.

Nomination Form

Support Form

Golden Apple Award

The Golden Apple Award is given to honor two outstanding individuals who graduated from the College of Education and Human Development at Western Michigan University and are presently working or retired from the many professions involved in the educational experience. The individuals will be personally selected by their peers as being representative of educational excellence and commitment.

Eligibility and Criteria

Must be a graduate of the College of Education and Human Development at Western Michigan University
Demonstrates enthusiasm for the teaching and learning process
Has a distinguished record of applying and widely sharing professional expertise
Has had a positive impact on students or the educational process through high standards, professional integrity and commitment to learner-centered education

Past recipients

Keystone Early Career Award

The Keystone Early Career Award is designed to recognize one graduate who has achieved substantial professional growth and advancement within the last ten years in their chosen profession in the field of human development.

Eligibility and Criteria

Must be a graduate of a human development program within the College of Education and Human Development at Western Michigan University within the last ten years
Hold or have held a professional position with a record of achievements
Demonstrate high potential to be an exceptional leader in their chosen profession

Past recipients

Keystone Meritorious Achievement Award

The Keystone Meritorious Achievement Award recognizes one graduate (graduation year must be at least 10 years prior to nomination year) who has demonstrated outstanding professional achievements and distinction in the field of human development.

Eligibility and Criteria

Must be a graduate of a human development program within the College of Education and Human Development at Western Michigan University at least ten years prior to nomination year
Hold or have held a professional position with a record of achievements and professional excellence
Made significant contributions to their chosen profession

Past recipients

CEHD Outstanding Alumni Award

The CEHD Outstanding Alumni Award is one of the University's highest alumni awards and is given to alumni who bring distinction to their alma mater through professional achievements and who have enjoyed a high level of success in their careers.

Eligibility and criteria

Nominees must have at least one degree from the College of Education and Human Development at WMU.
Preference will be given to past recipients of CEHD Alumni Awards (Golden Apple, Keystone, HPHE Alumni Academy, CECP and FCS Awards). Strong justification should be provided for nominees who are not past recipients of CEHD alumni awards.
Nominees must have achieved a high level of success within their chosen field of endeavor, which is exemplified by having attained increasingly responsible positions, and have been recognized by their peers.
Preference will be given to nominees who have participated in community activities as well as activities supporting WMU and have given distinguished service to their profession, to WMU, and/or to their community.
Award recipient is expected to engage in college-related events during Homecoming week. These events will vary based on recipients interests.

Past recipients

2025 Award Recipients

2025 college of education and human development award winners — (left to right) Ameer Ismail, Lindsey Hammerlein, Dr. Tasia Fields, Dr. Andrew Rynberg and Christopher Smith.

Dr. Andrew Rynberg – Golden Apple Award
Dr. Tasia Fields – Golden Apple Award
Ameer Ismail – Keystone Meritorious Award
Lindsey Hemmerlein – Keystone Early Career Award
Dr. Carol Payne Smith – Bronco Legacy Award (posthumously)
Dr. James Ysseldyke – CEHD Outstanding Alumni Award

Meet the 2025 award recipients